Hi everyone! Thanks for all the great comments so far! This is a 6-year long term review of the Marshall DSL40CR. It's been a great amp overall with very little to complain about. Check it out here 🛒 Sweetwater - imp.i114863.net/MarshallDSL40CR 🛒 Sky Music - bit.ly/3SuJD0k 🛒 Thomann (Global) - bit.ly/2WDpatz 🛒 Guitar Center - guitar-center.pxf.io/GjdVWn 🛒 Amazon UK - amzn.to/34lAfBd 🛒 Amazon Canada - amzn.to/2XfzVlT Eminence Texas Heat Speaker 🛒 Sweetwater - sweetwater.sjv.io/9gY2Ej (Affiliate Links)
I initially bought this amp for the variety of overdrive and distortion. When it first arrived, I couldn’t stop playing the CLEAN channel for well over an hour!
I just got this amp today! I've played with it all night and love it. It made my Les Paul sing. It took my pedals amazingly. I am so looking forward to gigging this weekend with it.
I also bought mine around the time you got yours. I also found the stock speaker harsh, but one day on stage at a festival the speaker "broke in" and sounded soo sweet! Now I'm totally satisfied with the speaker and the tone...
As I have stated on your original video I purchased my DSL40CR because of you…But I made 2 changed…first because the effect loop is programmable and a shared eg between the 4 channels…I inserted a 10 band graphic which makes the amp much more versatile…I also reboxed the amp to a head…as I prefer closed back cabinets with combinations of different speakers…I really love this amp thanks to you….Don’t forget the 6 button foot switch it really make this Marshall even that much better.
Hey. I just bought this amp but I just noticed a latency issue when switching between channels. Do you have this issue with either the stock FS or the 6 button? Thanks for your time.
@@TheChristafershawn no..if you use the front panel switches and don’t have the problem ….try using a different cable…or a midi foot switch.. I use the 6 button switch for its versitillity….but some complain of the size …it takes up a lot of real estate on a pedal board.. If you live in the US and buy it from Sweetwater if it dose not fix the problem you can return it ..Marshall PEDL-91016 6-way Footswitch for JVM4/DSL40CR/DSL100HR…Andertons and Thomann in Europe both have it in stock …but shipping rates may be expensive…
@@TheChristafershawn I just bought this DSL40CR and immediately noticed that same "latency" or lag while transitioning between channels using the included FS, too. (There is also a huge difference in volume between Clean and Crunch that is irritating). I have read and seen many posts about the jarring delay, and it doesn't seem that the optional 6 button (PEDL-9016) FS or MIDI FS does any thing to correct it. That's unfortunate, because otherwise t is really a great amp and versatile amp. But, if you are recording or playing any kind of music that requires a dynamic sound difference during songs (think Closer to the Heart by Rush), it can be a problem. I wish I knew of some way to fix it, other than just using pedals as my boost, for instance. I bought this amp hoping to avoid having to use OD/dist pedals, so it may be going back.
@@natebush9983Ever get that lag issue sorted out man??? I'm also looking at the DSL40cr very hard as my new amp to write, record, perform ect. Because I've just recently had to sell most of everything I had of value to cover the cost to move after my mom passed away suddenly and I was all on my own. My music project with a few friends is starting to pick up speed and I just need something affordable, versatile, durable with good sound quality.
Marshall is very underrated for its clean tone and my favourite sound has become a plexi clean channel cranked. I have a one watt JVM combo from the 50th anniversary. Made in Britain and I have used it daily for 10 years and still have the original tubes. I am a huge fan of Marshall amps they are the sound I desire and I especially like the way they react to playing style and attack. I always found fenders to not have the spongy response I like they are too sharp if that makes sense. Vox also responds the same way to playing attack and I find it makes me play better. Even at one watt the amp is plenty loud for my usage. Plugged into a 12 inch speaker cab and most would not believe it’s a single watt making all that noise.
Hi, Thanks Shane for the revisit. I have had one of these DSL40CR for about six years, stock everything and it still sounds great to my ears. I have a couple of great Fender amps as well, but I like that sounds like a Marshall. I did source the six button pedal which I think is worth while having to make the best use of all the channels playing live. My only issues have been the early replacement of the two EL34 output tubes with JJ's due to a hissing sound caused by one of the originals and more recently noticed occasional crackling or popping sounds from inside the amp. I tended to that myself being a retired electrical trades person. The main PCB was arcing across various places where the excess glue used to secure some components had flowed onto the board around them. I carefully removed the excess glue and cleaned the board up and had no further issues. Some of you owners may experience this at some point. I don't recommend DIY though unless you are competent with this stuff.
Great video, as always Shane . love watching your playing and in depth reviews. Even for people that won't ever perform live or record, still very informative. Australia's premier guitar channel.
I use one in my rehearsal space. With the 6-button footswitch, it is a truly versatile workhorse and is a true bargain. I suspect Marshall has a replacement coming soon because I see they've now been discounted at many stores
I put a 65watt creamback in mine and I like it a lot. I also replaced all the tubes power tubes tung sol and 12ax7 mullers. that also made a big improvement.
A little while ago on a live stream you recommended this amp after I said I had to send back a Fender Bassbreaker due to mechanical issues. At that time I ended going with a Fender Deluxe Reverb that was/is modded into a 2X10 running 6L6's. It's cool but kinda limited. So...I ended buying the Marshall as well after seeing this video and received it yesterday. Even with the stock speaker I am really enjoying it and I am very impressed with the tones thus far. Now I am considering the Texas Heat speaker but it's not a must right away. Of course I am in the honeymoon phase so there's that. Thanks Shane, I should of never doubting you ( damn negative internet reviewers!!!) it's an impressive amp and I got it new and on sale. Cheers!
I've had mine 4 years and it still blows me away how good it is and often better than more expensive amps. Also have an AC15 as second and different but the Marshall number one.
As always, great review Shane. I purchased the DSL40CR a couple of years ago based on your recommendation. The stock celestion did not work with this amp, it was way too bright. The Texas Heat is a perfect match, and the amp sounds phenomenal. Thank you.
There are other Celestions that sound killer with the 40CR but the V type is not one of them . Celestion Creamback M65 or the H75 are great with this Amp . The Marshall spec V30 and the Heritage G12H30 75hz Greenback also sound Killer with the DSL 40 CR.
Great run down of a great amp! I bought the 1st generation DSL 40C in 2015 and have been gigging with it ever since. I'm still happy with it after nearly 10 years. Funnily enough, I've also been using a Klon clone in front of it for years, for a little extra crunch when needed, just to have an extra step up from the basic crunch channel. It's a match made in heaven, isn't it? It's a pretty heavy beast to lug around, though, which is my only gripe. But, hey, it's a 40 W tube amp, they're never light weight, right? And it gets loud, even at 20 W when you're trying to dial the sweet spots. No option for headphones, so I don't use it for practice at home. I'm pretty sure that would've taken too much of a toll on my marriage. The DSL has provided most of my tone ever since I instantly fell in love with it at my local guitar shop all those years ago. You get an awful lot of Marshall sound for the money with the DSL 40.
Great review Shane, have throughly agree. I have the DSL and once I got accustomed to dialling it in such a great all rounder amp. Loved hearing your speaker comments too. Cheers mate.
A very high-quality and comprehensive evaluation of this combo, including personal experiences. Very informative for those considering it. Greetings Pavel CZ.👍👍👍
I have this amp. I usually keep it on the clean channel and use overdrive pedals for different colors of dirt. The clean channel is underrated. I heard about this from your channel, and Psionic Audio touted how well built this was, so that sealed the deal for me.
I feel glad you like this amp. I really love it, I have had mine for over 4 years and no issues at all. For me is a keeper, I think i would replace it only if marshall comes with a new Dsl model :)
I put an old Marshall speaker and it sounds great, I bought 2 of them and run it them together, they sound great. They as good amp that you can buy these days!
Yeah, speakers make the biggest difference in amps. The Texas Heat is a great speaker. One that really sounds great in Marshalls is the Eminence Governor. I wish you tried that instead of the Tonker. It's very warm with the subdued high-end you're looking for.
Great LT review Shane. For anyone who gets this - there is one small issue that can effect the 40CR, and thats the glue Marshall used on their capacitors - it can fry resistors. There is a 2w resistor in between two filter caps that, if it burns out, kills the amp (R49). It seems that its not a matter of if, but when. That glue can also f-up any other resistors it touches. Its a straight forward fix, but for anyone with a 40CR, I'd recommend removing that glue and/or replacing that resistor before it fails you at a gig. On the amp sound. I have owned most of Marshall's best amps (plus more, I have videos on this), currently however my main amp is a £5000 Fuchs ODS II (I've got a video on this one)... but my other amp is a 40CR. That crunch channel, with an SD-1, gives that 2203 tone *incredibly* well paired with a Mesa 4x12 with V30's. It does not take a backward step and defer to the Fuchs - it proudly punches above its weight. For the money - its incredible value.
It's a great amp . I bought mine second hand a few months back . I use it in the house although I normally use my Orange mini and keep the DSL for playing out , it's easily loud enough to keep up with our loud drummer . Only thing I don't like , it's a heavy beast , but most valve amps at this kind of wattage aren't that light , just don't expect Solid state or modeller weight .
I’ve been rocking a JCM2000 combo (the predecessor to the DSL) for almost 20 years and despite everyone saying it sucks I wouldn’t trade it. I do occasionally wish it had 4 channels but not enough to “upgrade”. The two channels are versatile enough for my playing.
The Creamback M65 is the perfect speaker for the DSL 40CR and that is what it should come with . The Creamback H also works well or a G1265 speaker ir clone like a Warehouse ET65
I have this amp for use at my band’s rehearsal space. It’s the older, single master volume version. I changed the stock speaker to a WGS ET-65. I run with on the green channel/crunch mode and pepper in a boost for leads and I’ve got no issues or complaints.
In the UK there is occasionally a two speaker version, the DSL402, sold for a bargain price from GuitarGuitar , actually cheaper than the 20w version, let alone the 1x12 40w. The speakers are no-name OEM ones, but not bad, and for that price you can afford to change them.
I bought the 6 way foot switch for mine and it was well worth it. Clean, Crunch, OD1, OD2, Vol 1, Vol 2, FX Loop On/Off. Just set the tone knobs and away you go!
You know, I've been watching this channel for going on 10yrs.....Jesus, where's the time going, brother! Such incredibly good info. But, I'm scratching my head as to why out of all these great amps, you've never demo's the Little Sister from the Friedman line. It falls right into the bluesy wheelhouse, with its clean, or slightly broken up tones. It's such a great little versatile amp. But, I digress... I purchased this amp in part due to this video.
After owning a bunch of tube amps I am down to a DSL40CR and a Deluxe Reverb. Couldn't find a better pair. The 6 button foot switch makes for a huge upgrade. The dual master volumes are a key to this amp. It sounds great shaking the house and sounds great when turned down low.
I switched the speaker to an EVH and re-biased the amp to 50 watts 🎸🎸🎸 I only use the clean channel and run my Helix rack into it …. I have had it for years and only switched the first shielded ECC83 preamp tube as it got a little noisy !!! These are great amps 🎸🎸🎸
Just got mine. It's no JCM800 half stack but for a grab-n-go it surely delivers. Hell, it's MUCH better than the JCM800 1x12 combo I had back in the day. Stock speaker was too bright and fizzy so I immediately swapped it for a 65 watt Creamback. Smoother, meatier, and surprising bottom end for an amp this small. Build quality is about what you'd expect at this price point - particle board everything, PCB everything else. But you can sure get a lot of good sounds out of it. It's a comfort to see a documented example of one lasting 6 years.🤣
There is a slight delay when using the footswitch to change channels, as well as a split second where the sound cuts out and you hear the amp click. When playing live, it is best to dial in a single channel and use pedals.
The Marshall DSL40 with an upgraded speaker and tubes is the best SOUNDING Marshall in the past 20 years since the Vintage Modern. Sure i still love the 100Watt Plexi i have but not many places i can use it anymore.
Nice 6year review. Your original was one of the things that helped me choose one of these almost a year ago. I did spring for the bigger foot switch. Totally worth it. Yeah the reverb is skimpy.
Great video! I owned the prior “C” version and I agree that the CR is much improved. If they made a head version I’d totally pick one up. I just don’t have space for another large combo
@@michaelholmes5150I’m aware. But I’d prefer the 40 in a head as I don’t need that extra headroom and would prefer to play through a 1x12. 100w head is over 29” wide and just more than I need in every way
I found your channel after buying a Blues Deluxe a couple years ago. I just got the Marshall DSL40CR about a month ago. Before I was using pedals with the Fender to get lead tones and what not. Now those pedals are collecting dust. Have you ever tried running both amps at the same time both on the clean channels? It sounds so full and amazing. The fender provides the missing reverb. If I need a 100% clean sound the Fender is still my go to amp. The clean channel on the Marshall sounds great but I play a Les Paul and have to dial the gain so far back on the Marshall clean channel to have it completely clean.
I bought mine 2 years back, i use it for gigs and sometimes at home , just to check if all is still well. I.ve never been able to play it at high volumes because i only play small venues and pubs, but i love it, its a great amp, i only play Gibson SG.s and i use the clean channel with my homemade pedalboard, wich hold a delay, a dr.d from harley benton, and ibanez ts9 tubescreamer, it works great, I. m so happy with that humbucker sound through a Marshall, but my Question Is, in Those 6 Years did you ever Change the valves❓️❓️ 0:280:28
You can buy a Marshall JVM 410 footswitch that gives you 6 different setting. I don't use any other pedals. I did have to send the amp back once because the circuitry isn't the greatest but Marshall paid for it as part of the warranty. Otherwise, it is a great, versatile amp.
I bought the 2018 version pretty much after watching this video. I am amazed at how many Marshall tones you can get out of this little combo. It's funny how I couldn't wait to get my hands on the Ultra Gain channel, but after having it for a few months, I have found that I live in the Classic Gain crunch mode. Throw a compressor/sustainer with a noise gate in the loop and all four channels sound absolutely fantastic. I see from some of your other videos you lean toward Eminence speakers. While I find the V-type in the box suitable, I do have another 12" cab with a Vintage 30 in it. I move between the two depending on the mood. When I really want to light it up, I plug in both and hit the pentode switch. If you get a minute. share with me what the Texas Heat or Tonker do that the V-type and V30 can't?
Thank you for this excellent and comprehensive video review, its appreciated. I do have one question if I may, is the Texas heat speaker that you installed a 4, 8 or 16 Ohms.
My thoughts after playing this amp live for two years; 1.) The clean tones are beautiful. 2.) The overdrive/gain tones are creamy and every bit "MARSHALL" 3.) The 6-button foot switch opens up the functionality of this amplifier. It effectively gives you 8 different sounds (1-4 red/green) 4.) It requires no pedals to sound great 5.) Although my DSL40CR has performed flawlessly, my bandmate's just died one day. No idea why.
I had the original 40C after owning a JCM800, Valvestate, Plexi, Line 6 crap and Peavey 5150.Hands down the 40C was the best amp I had ever played. The versatility and tone was what I wanted. The speaker was crap so I put a Celestion Vintage 30 in it. Made it a much heavier amp though. As you ssy the built in reverb is no match for a Fender or Vox. Easily solved with a pedal thru the loop. The 40CR is tempting but its heavy, inferior speaker still and too loud for an apartment even in 20W mode. Just wish the attenuation went down say 10W or even 5W for bedroom practice. I like the dual master volume upgrade but the improved attenuation would have been a better idea. I currently have the DSL20 head and 1x12 cab with a Greenback. Could not be happier as its lighter. Even in 10W mode, its still a little loud so being able to attenuate down to 5W would have been good. Just wish tube amps now would include cabinet sims for live and studio playing as Marshall needs to keep up with all the modeliing tech out there and the modernity that comes with modelling amps.
i was able to a/b a c vs a cr and definitely the speaker made a difference. the first version felt the bass freq were boomy and unfocused, and even with the v type its not as tight as any modern amp might sound. i chose the cr version, and its been golden! i certainly considering speaker changes.
Great review. One of my goals for this calendar year is to play more guitar, and to play my Deluxe Reverb more in a band context. If I end up gigging more than I expect, maybe I’ll think about this amp you’re featuring, and with the mod you suggested. But for now…
Billy Gibson uses a secret pedal, there's RUclips video about this "secret pedal". It's a guitar graphic equalizer pedal, he only bumps up the 400 slider. This makes the Celestion V type speaker put out some growl and punch and sounds fuller. Behringer sells one for $25.
I would like to see a future version be made with a plywood cabinet. I think the MDF material adds weight without any benefit. I do like the amp - it does have the Voice of Marshall. Thank you for the heads up on the speaker swap, I must try that.
I bought a new one last week and it's a monster amp! The clean tones are surprisingly great and the crunch and ODs channels have that classic thumping, growling, and biting rock tone. This being said, the emulated out is utter rubbish for headphones. It's supposed to emulate a 1960's 4x12 cab. Yeah right. ha They should have configured it the same way as Blackstar's superior emulated out which sounds just like the amp speaker. With the price drop they will be releasing a new and improved version soon.
Used to play through dsl 100 head. Great amp, the only thing I’d love to have was separate eq sections one for each channel. The great eq settings on one channel may not translate as good to the other.
Great amp Shane! I have a BT50 that I got for $300 used, that basically apes this amp, with the clean/crunch channel, classic channel & an ultra channel, FX loop & a real SPRING reverb as opposed to your DSL'S digital 1! Def based on the same or similar circuit!
Hey Shane, so as I commented a few days ago that I decided to purchase this amp new and was happy with it for the most part BUT I finally plugged in the footswitch and noticed a latency issue when changing channels as well as a popping noise. Do you also have this issue with yours? This may be a deal breaker for me. Let me know if you see this latest comment. Thanks........P.S. I also purchased a Texas Heat speaker as well because it is a bit too sizzley on the top end for sure.
Have you looked up the Marshall JVM series? I reckon you should do a video on either the 205 or 410 combo amps! The JVM amps are very versatile and do amazing rock, blues and metal tones!
Just to be clear I have the DSL 40 CR and I love it but, it has had its issues which I spoke about recently... called my amp tech and asked if I am the only one having issues to which he replied " I have 4 in my shop now". .. and I have to wait a month to get mine in !! Tube amp techs are going away in my area , he's the only Marshall Warranty guy left close by....I still love mine just wish I could play it !! Cheers Mate ! 11:44
What goes wrong with them? I've had a Fender Bassbreaker 15 Combo (LTD Yellow Tweed/Greenback) since shortly after they came out and 'knock wood', no problems at all so far... Of course I don't gig it, so it only ever gets moved between my main floor and the basement where the drum kit is setup ;)
@@johnsmith-ug5tp It was on his last video about these....first time it quit working it was because of too much glue on the cab dripping into the electronics....this time it quit working again and I suspect more glue issues both channels quit working and the input jack has become so loose it's not making contact, I'll know more when my tech gets into it on the 25th of April, have to wait a month to get it in because he's so backed up !
My DSL40cr just decided to stop working after I started using a PS1 power soak, it was connected fine but just stopped working, I hope it's just the fuses like yours! Otherwise it sounds amazing and I loved it
@intheblues I’ve seen lots (lots, not all, yet) of your videos and long story short I ended up getting a vox ac15 blue tv and the Fender Supersonic. In my case most of the times I use the vox and almost never the supersonic, I guess that is because I prefer the “natural” distortion of the amp (SuperSonic’s Vintage/burn button didn’t got me). I’m now after a Marshall valved between a SC20 or SV20. P.S.: I’ve never thanked you for opening my ears and healthy criticism on gears, so here goes: Thank You, Shane my m8!
The Achilles' heel of these amps is the sound farts out on the gain channel set above 6 causing a delay in the attack. Also, the reverb is very lacking. If they could sort out these probs, great amp..
On my DSL40CR I only use the classic gain channel in the clean mode and then use pedals for different levels of overdrive. To my ear it sounded better like this than with the built in overdrive
been a big fan of ur channel for a long time and since ur the right guy to ask , do you agree that 50 watt plexis and JCMs and JMPs of the old era are quite more louder than the same 50 watt reissues today or so called 50 watt tube amps made today ? I had a friend with a JMP and a 30watt Plexi and they were SO LOUD compared to similar watt rated amps in the stage most of which were solid states .
Hi" If you don't mind. I would like to ask you what tube amp you would recommend for blues and funk. I don't like wild loud sounds. This would be strictly for home use. Thanks for any info!
Thank you for this revision! I was just considering the DSL40CR for home and rehersal room because ironically, DSL20HR is too loud as it has no master volumes, but this one does. You mentioned that this combo would also be too loud for home use, do you need to turn the master vol up to get the sound filling out?
I find that those great, saturated overdrive tones are only any use in the bedroom. On stage, they just get swallowed up in the mix, and you end up playing with a much cleaner sound. My go-to is a Fender BDR, because there's _enough_ overdrive, and it has a real spring reverb. I've recently gigged a 1989 Peavey Bandit (real spring reverb!), which was excellent, but have not yet taken my 1999 Laney LC30 (another real spring reverb!) to a gig. I suspect that the Laney might be better than the Marshall for the kind of gigs I play.
Hi. Nice review. I have the same DSL-CR. I’d like to know if you use the ultra gain channel, and, what you do for solo boost. Cause, I only boost the sound for solos in the clean channel. 😞 I have, TS9DX, TC Spark, Boss SD1, Boss EQ. I can’t work with any of that. Tks bro.
Thanks for your review. Quick question. When you replaced the stock 16 ohm celestian speaker with the Texas heat speaker, did you get 16 ohm? I see Texas heat comes in 4, 8 and 16 ohm. Any advice would be very appreciated. Thank you.
Hi Shane, I love mine, home use, but I’m interested to know the difference between the amps Emulated Out and using your TwoNotes CaptorX for recording… What’s better??
Hi everyone! Thanks for all the great comments so far! This is a 6-year long term review of the Marshall DSL40CR. It's been a great amp overall with very little to complain about. Check it out here
🛒 Sweetwater - imp.i114863.net/MarshallDSL40CR
🛒 Sky Music - bit.ly/3SuJD0k
🛒 Thomann (Global) - bit.ly/2WDpatz
🛒 Guitar Center - guitar-center.pxf.io/GjdVWn
🛒 Amazon UK - amzn.to/34lAfBd
🛒 Amazon Canada - amzn.to/2XfzVlT
Eminence Texas Heat Speaker
🛒 Sweetwater - sweetwater.sjv.io/9gY2Ej
(Affiliate Links)
I see a lot of these on the used market. I was just wandering why
I initially bought this amp for the variety of overdrive and distortion. When it first arrived, I couldn’t stop playing the CLEAN channel for well over an hour!
yeah me to I almost never leave that channel, i like the crunch on that side as well.
Me too! I love how big and open it sounds.
It has great cleans, i didnt care for the drive channels, weird to say coming from a Marshall amp
@@ocelotl23 If you’re still using the stock speaker, that’s believable. Sounds 10X better with a Creamback in it.
@@michaelyolch79which one?
I’ve had my DSL40CR for 3 years now and still love it!!! I bought it based on what I heard Shane do with it. Thanks Shane!!! This really does it all.
I just got this amp today! I've played with it all night and love it. It made my Les Paul sing. It took my pedals amazingly. I am so looking forward to gigging this weekend with it.
I also bought mine around the time you got yours. I also found the stock speaker harsh, but one day on stage at a festival the speaker "broke in" and sounded soo sweet! Now I'm totally satisfied with the speaker and the tone...
As I have stated on your original video I purchased my DSL40CR because of you…But I made 2 changed…first because the effect loop is programmable and a shared eg between the 4 channels…I inserted a 10 band graphic which makes the amp much more versatile…I also reboxed the amp to a head…as I prefer closed back cabinets with combinations of different speakers…I really love this amp thanks to you….Don’t forget the 6 button foot switch it really make this Marshall even that much better.
Hey. I just bought this amp but I just noticed a latency issue when switching between channels. Do you have this issue with either the stock FS or the 6 button? Thanks for your time.
@@TheChristafershawn no..if you use the front panel switches and don’t have the problem ….try using a different cable…or a midi foot switch.. I use the 6 button switch for its versitillity….but some complain of the size …it takes up a lot of real estate on a pedal board..
If you live in the US and buy it from Sweetwater if it dose not fix the problem you can return it ..Marshall PEDL-91016 6-way Footswitch for JVM4/DSL40CR/DSL100HR…Andertons and Thomann in Europe both have it in stock …but shipping rates may be expensive…
@@TheChristafershawn I just bought this DSL40CR and immediately noticed that same "latency" or lag while transitioning between channels using the included FS, too. (There is also a huge difference in volume between Clean and Crunch that is irritating). I have read and seen many posts about the jarring delay, and it doesn't seem that the optional 6 button (PEDL-9016) FS or MIDI FS does any thing to correct it. That's unfortunate, because otherwise t is really a great amp and versatile amp. But, if you are recording or playing any kind of music that requires a dynamic sound difference during songs (think Closer to the Heart by Rush), it can be a problem. I wish I knew of some way to fix it, other than just using pedals as my boost, for instance. I bought this amp hoping to avoid having to use OD/dist pedals, so it may be going back.
@@natebush9983Ever get that lag issue sorted out man??? I'm also looking at the DSL40cr very hard as my new amp to write, record, perform ect. Because I've just recently had to sell most of everything I had of value to cover the cost to move after my mom passed away suddenly and I was all on my own. My music project with a few friends is starting to pick up speed and I just need something affordable, versatile, durable with good sound quality.
Marshall is very underrated for its clean tone and my favourite sound has become a plexi clean channel cranked. I have a one watt JVM combo from the 50th anniversary. Made in Britain and I have used it daily for 10 years and still have the original tubes. I am a huge fan of Marshall amps they are the sound I desire and I especially like the way they react to playing style and attack. I always found fenders to not have the spongy response I like they are too sharp if that makes sense. Vox also responds the same way to playing attack and I find it makes me play better. Even at one watt the amp is plenty loud for my usage. Plugged into a 12 inch speaker cab and most would not believe it’s a single watt making all that noise.
I also came to the same conclusion after testing a couple of fender amps
Hi, Thanks Shane for the revisit. I have had one of these DSL40CR for about six years, stock everything and it still sounds great to my ears. I have a couple of great Fender amps as well, but I like that sounds like a Marshall. I did source the six button pedal which I think is worth while having to make the best use of all the channels playing live. My only issues have been the early replacement of the two EL34 output tubes with JJ's due to a hissing sound caused by one of the originals and more recently noticed occasional crackling or popping sounds from inside the amp. I tended to that myself being a retired electrical trades person. The main PCB was arcing across various places where the excess glue used to secure some components had flowed onto the board around them. I carefully removed the excess glue and cleaned the board up and had no further issues. Some of you owners may experience this at some point. I don't recommend DIY though unless you are competent with this stuff.
Excellent info John thanks mate
Great video, as always Shane . love watching your playing and in depth reviews. Even for people that won't ever perform live or record, still very informative.
Australia's premier guitar channel.
Many thanks, Chrispsy696!
I use one in my rehearsal space. With the 6-button footswitch, it is a truly versatile workhorse and is a true bargain. I suspect Marshall has a replacement coming soon because I see they've now been discounted at many stores
$200 off now at Sweetwater.
I put a 65watt creamback in mine and I like it a lot. I also replaced all the tubes power tubes tung sol and 12ax7 mullers. that also made a big improvement.
I did the exact same thing! Love it 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
@@Spazzzzz67 it's all you need. im old-school a les paul though a Marshall.
Did you have to bias it after you changed the tubes?
A little while ago on a live stream you recommended this amp after I said I had to send back a Fender Bassbreaker due to mechanical issues. At that time I ended going with a Fender Deluxe Reverb that was/is modded into a 2X10 running 6L6's. It's cool but kinda limited. So...I ended buying the Marshall as well after seeing this video and received it yesterday. Even with the stock speaker I am really enjoying it and I am very impressed with the tones thus far. Now I am considering the Texas Heat speaker but it's not a must right away. Of course I am in the honeymoon phase so there's that. Thanks Shane, I should of never doubting you ( damn negative internet reviewers!!!) it's an impressive amp and I got it new and on sale. Cheers!
I've had mine 4 years and it still blows me away how good it is and often better than more expensive amps. Also have an AC15 as second and different but the Marshall number one.
I have an Ac15c1, love that amp. And it takes pedals so very well. But i'm planning to buy one day an DSL40CR. Really curious how I'll like it 😅
As always, great review Shane. I purchased the DSL40CR a couple of years ago based on your recommendation. The stock celestion did not work with this amp, it was way too bright. The Texas Heat is a perfect match, and the amp sounds phenomenal. Thank you.
He links to the 150w Texas Heat. I am not near my amp and was just wondering... what Ohm version are you using?
There are other Celestions that sound killer with the 40CR but the V type is not one of them . Celestion Creamback M65 or the H75 are great with this Amp . The Marshall spec V30 and the Heritage G12H30 75hz Greenback also sound Killer with the DSL 40 CR.
Great run down of a great amp! I bought the 1st generation DSL 40C in 2015 and have been gigging with it ever since. I'm still happy with it after nearly 10 years. Funnily enough, I've also been using a Klon clone in front of it for years, for a little extra crunch when needed, just to have an extra step up from the basic crunch channel. It's a match made in heaven, isn't it? It's a pretty heavy beast to lug around, though, which is my only gripe. But, hey, it's a 40 W tube amp, they're never light weight, right? And it gets loud, even at 20 W when you're trying to dial the sweet spots. No option for headphones, so I don't use it for practice at home. I'm pretty sure that would've taken too much of a toll on my marriage. The DSL has provided most of my tone ever since I instantly fell in love with it at my local guitar shop all those years ago. You get an awful lot of Marshall sound for the money with the DSL 40.
Great review Shane, have throughly agree. I have the DSL and once I got accustomed to dialling it in such a great all rounder amp. Loved hearing your speaker comments too. Cheers mate.
I have been gigging this amp for 3 years in Sarasota Florida. I have tried, Friedman, 1987x, Splawn, and a couple others, I always keep this dsl40cr!
A very high-quality and comprehensive evaluation of this combo, including personal experiences. Very informative for those considering it. Greetings Pavel CZ.👍👍👍
I have this amp. I usually keep it on the clean channel and use overdrive pedals for different colors of dirt. The clean channel is underrated.
I heard about this from your channel, and Psionic Audio touted how well built this was, so that sealed the deal for me.
I feel glad you like this amp. I really love it, I have had mine for over 4 years and no issues at all. For me is a keeper, I think i would replace it only if marshall comes with a new Dsl model :)
I've had my 40cr for a year and a half, i love it it rocks ! thx Shane
I put an old Marshall speaker and it sounds great, I bought 2 of them and run it them together, they sound great. They as good amp that you can buy these days!
Yeah, speakers make the biggest difference in amps. The Texas Heat is a great speaker. One that really sounds great in Marshalls is the Eminence Governor. I wish you tried that instead of the Tonker. It's very warm with the subdued high-end you're looking for.
I have one of these. I loved it so much, I went and bought the 100watt head. Its my clean and "pedal platform". Awesome amps.
Great LT review Shane. For anyone who gets this - there is one small issue that can effect the 40CR, and thats the glue Marshall used on their capacitors - it can fry resistors. There is a 2w resistor in between two filter caps that, if it burns out, kills the amp (R49). It seems that its not a matter of if, but when. That glue can also f-up any other resistors it touches. Its a straight forward fix, but for anyone with a 40CR, I'd recommend removing that glue and/or replacing that resistor before it fails you at a gig.
On the amp sound. I have owned most of Marshall's best amps (plus more, I have videos on this), currently however my main amp is a £5000 Fuchs ODS II (I've got a video on this one)... but my other amp is a 40CR. That crunch channel, with an SD-1, gives that 2203 tone *incredibly* well paired with a Mesa 4x12 with V30's. It does not take a backward step and defer to the Fuchs - it proudly punches above its weight. For the money - its incredible value.
It's a great amp . I bought mine second hand a few months back . I use it in the house although I normally use my Orange mini and keep the DSL for playing out , it's easily loud enough to keep up with our loud drummer . Only thing I don't like , it's a heavy beast , but most valve amps at this kind of wattage aren't that light , just don't expect Solid state or modeller weight .
Fantastic series, and awesome to see a long term rundown. Just ordered a scratch and dent one as my first tube amp thanks to your vids.
I’ve been rocking a JCM2000 combo (the predecessor to the DSL) for almost 20 years and despite everyone saying it sucks I wouldn’t trade it.
I do occasionally wish it had 4 channels but not enough to “upgrade”. The two channels are versatile enough for my playing.
I have a JCM200 DSL 401 that was my first tube amp still have it to this day. Still sounds great.
Perfect video! I just bought one.
The Creamback M65 is the perfect speaker for the DSL 40CR and that is what it should come with . The Creamback H also works well or a G1265 speaker ir clone like a Warehouse ET65
I have this amp for use at my band’s rehearsal space. It’s the older, single master volume version. I changed the stock speaker to a WGS ET-65. I run with on the green channel/crunch mode and pepper in a boost for leads and I’ve got no issues or complaints.
In the UK there is occasionally a two speaker version, the DSL402, sold for a bargain price from GuitarGuitar , actually cheaper than the 20w version, let alone the 1x12 40w. The speakers are no-name OEM ones, but not bad, and for that price you can afford to change them.
I bought the 6 way foot switch for mine and it was well worth it. Clean, Crunch, OD1, OD2, Vol 1, Vol 2, FX Loop On/Off. Just set the tone knobs and away you go!
You know, I've been watching this channel for going on 10yrs.....Jesus, where's the time going, brother! Such incredibly good info. But, I'm scratching my head as to why out of all these great amps, you've never demo's the Little Sister from the Friedman line. It falls right into the bluesy wheelhouse, with its clean, or slightly broken up tones. It's such a great little versatile amp. But, I digress... I purchased this amp in part due to this video.
Hi Shane it was great meeting you and Rhiannon last weekend at Casey Central. I hope you both are doing well. Cheers, Craig.
Hi Craig, nice to meet you guys too! All the best :-)
After owning a bunch of tube amps I am down to a DSL40CR and a Deluxe Reverb. Couldn't find a better pair. The 6 button foot switch makes for a huge upgrade. The dual master volumes are a key to this amp. It sounds great shaking the house and sounds great when turned down low.
I switched the speaker to an EVH and re-biased the amp to 50 watts 🎸🎸🎸 I only use the clean channel and run my Helix rack into it …. I have had it for years and only switched the first shielded ECC83 preamp tube as it got a little noisy !!! These are great amps 🎸🎸🎸
Great vid Shane - the upgraded footswitch is a 6 button one which just uses the standard 1/4" jack connection. It's a great addition 👍
Just got mine. It's no JCM800 half stack but for a grab-n-go it surely delivers. Hell, it's MUCH better than the JCM800 1x12 combo I had back in the day. Stock speaker was too bright and fizzy so I immediately swapped it for a 65 watt Creamback. Smoother, meatier, and surprising bottom end for an amp this small. Build quality is about what you'd expect at this price point - particle board everything, PCB everything else. But you can sure get a lot of good sounds out of it. It's a comfort to see a documented example of one lasting 6 years.🤣
There is a slight delay when using the footswitch to change channels, as well as a split second where the sound cuts out and you hear the amp click. When playing live, it is best to dial in a single channel and use pedals.
The Marshall DSL40 with an upgraded speaker and tubes is the best SOUNDING Marshall in the past 20 years since
the Vintage Modern. Sure i still love the 100Watt Plexi i have but not many places i can use it anymore.
Nice 6year review. Your original was one of the things that helped me choose one of these almost a year ago.
I did spring for the bigger foot switch. Totally worth it.
Yeah the reverb is skimpy.
I have the DSL40CR, EVH 5150 Iconic and BassBreaker 30R and rate them in that order. The trick with the DSL is the 6 button foot switch.
Great video! I owned the prior “C” version and I agree that the CR is much improved. If they made a head version I’d totally pick one up. I just don’t have space for another large combo
The head version is the 100W
@@michaelholmes5150I’m aware. But I’d prefer the 40 in a head as I don’t need that extra headroom and would prefer to play through a 1x12. 100w head is over 29” wide and just more than I need in every way
Thanks Shane for a great and informative video of this amplifier. It has helped me greatly in deciding which Marshall to purchase 😊
I found your channel after buying a Blues Deluxe a couple years ago. I just got the Marshall DSL40CR about a month ago. Before I was using pedals with the Fender to get lead tones and what not. Now those pedals are collecting dust. Have you ever tried running both amps at the same time both on the clean channels? It sounds so full and amazing. The fender provides the missing reverb. If I need a 100% clean sound the Fender is still my go to amp. The clean channel on the Marshall sounds great but I play a Les Paul and have to dial the gain so far back on the Marshall clean channel to have it completely clean.
❤ I have a JVM 215C that is unbelievable, 50 watt combo with 150 watt speaker. Marshall jvm,s are so versatile, just like the Dsl series.
Just ordered one along with a PRS SE Custom 24-08. I can't wait for them to get here.
Amp sounds great Shane as do you.Rock on!
The recent price drops feel like a new model of this is on the way! 🎸😃👍🏻
That’s good. Let’s get these on the cheap!
@@aaronhiggs Currently only $729 on the Sweetwater website. I'd say that's way more than fair for a lifetime amp of this caliber!
Yeah, I thought the samething, but I couldn't resist buying one last week. ha
@@johnsmith-ug5tp Still…money well spent. I think it’s one of the very best combo amps ever made. I put a Creamback in mine. Sounds waaaay better!
Yep and thanks for the speaker suggestion.
@@michaelyolch79
The 4 channel switch uses the same cable as the two channel foot switch. It's a game-changer too.
I identify the Marshall DSL 40 with you Shane!! It’s become as much a part of your sound as your’52 Reissue Tele!!!😎😎😎🎸🎸🎸
Thanks man! Yeah it's part of the signature sound these days, it's a great combo for sure, cheers!
I have the first run DSL40 that came with a seventy80. I took that out and installed a Vintage 30 clone. Solid amp.
Luv those pickups on white strat..lefty too here
I bought mine 2 years back, i use it for gigs and sometimes at home , just to check if all is still well. I.ve never been able to play it at high volumes because i only play small venues and pubs, but i love it, its a great amp, i only play Gibson SG.s and i use the clean channel with my homemade pedalboard, wich hold a delay, a dr.d from harley benton, and ibanez ts9 tubescreamer, it works great, I. m so happy with that humbucker sound through a Marshall, but my Question Is, in Those 6 Years did you ever Change the valves❓️❓️ 0:28 0:28
You can buy a Marshall JVM 410 footswitch that gives you 6 different setting. I don't use any other pedals. I did have to send the amp back once because the circuitry isn't the greatest but Marshall paid for it as part of the warranty. Otherwise, it is a great, versatile amp.
I bought the 2018 version pretty much after watching this video. I am amazed at how many Marshall tones you can get out of this little combo. It's funny how I couldn't wait to get my hands on the Ultra Gain channel, but after having it for a few months, I have found that I live in the Classic Gain crunch mode. Throw a compressor/sustainer with a noise gate in the loop and all four channels sound absolutely fantastic. I see from some of your other videos you lean toward Eminence speakers. While I find the V-type in the box suitable, I do have another 12" cab with a Vintage 30 in it. I move between the two depending on the mood. When I really want to light it up, I plug in both and hit the pentode switch. If you get a minute. share with me what the Texas Heat or Tonker do that the V-type and V30 can't?
Good shout on the speaker . I might change mine as well .
Thank you for this excellent and comprehensive video review, its appreciated. I do have one question if I may, is the Texas heat speaker that you installed a 4, 8 or 16 Ohms.
My thoughts after playing this amp live for two years;
1.) The clean tones are beautiful.
2.) The overdrive/gain tones are creamy and every bit "MARSHALL"
3.) The 6-button foot switch opens up the functionality of this amplifier. It effectively gives you 8 different sounds (1-4 red/green)
4.) It requires no pedals to sound great
5.) Although my DSL40CR has performed flawlessly, my bandmate's just died one day. No idea why.
I had the original 40C after owning a JCM800, Valvestate, Plexi, Line 6 crap and Peavey 5150.Hands down the 40C was the best amp I had ever played. The versatility and tone was what I wanted. The speaker was crap so I put a Celestion Vintage 30 in it. Made it a much heavier amp though. As you ssy the built in reverb is no match for a Fender or Vox. Easily solved with a pedal thru the loop. The 40CR is tempting but its heavy, inferior speaker still and too loud for an apartment even in 20W mode. Just wish the attenuation went down say 10W or even 5W for bedroom practice. I like the dual master volume upgrade but the improved attenuation would have been a better idea.
I currently have the DSL20 head and 1x12 cab with a Greenback. Could not be happier as its lighter. Even in 10W mode, its still a little loud so being able to attenuate down to 5W would have been good. Just wish tube amps now would include cabinet sims for live and studio playing as Marshall needs to keep up with all the modeliing tech out there and the modernity that comes with modelling amps.
I put a Celestion Cream Back in my DSL15. It sounds unbelievable and just gets better with volume.
i was able to a/b a c vs a cr and definitely the speaker made a difference. the first version felt the bass freq were boomy and unfocused, and even with the v type its not as tight as any modern amp might sound. i chose the cr version, and its been golden! i certainly considering speaker changes.
Nice cleans for a Marshall, the Lace pickups sound pretty good too...
Cheers Shane!
It would be incredibly easy to make a midi footswitch for that. You just need a little Arduino, a few lines of code, footswitches and a midi socket.
Great review. One of my goals for this calendar year is to play more guitar, and to play my Deluxe Reverb more in a band context. If I end up gigging more than I expect, maybe I’ll think about this amp you’re featuring, and with the mod you suggested. But for now…
Billy Gibson uses a secret pedal, there's RUclips video about this "secret pedal". It's a guitar graphic equalizer pedal, he only bumps up the 400 slider. This makes the Celestion V type speaker put out some growl and punch and sounds fuller. Behringer sells one for $25.
This such a trip. I just saw one today in a local pawnshop in Houston TX for $690.
Shane, if you get the 6-button footswitch for this amplifier it becomes 4 amplifiers in one. (8 if you also use the effects loop)
I would like to see a future version be made with a plywood cabinet. I think the MDF material adds weight without any benefit.
I do like the amp - it does have the Voice of Marshall.
Thank you for the heads up on the speaker swap, I must try that.
Those Lace sensors sound great through that amp.
Nice! Liking your notes and riffs that jam!
I bought a new one last week and it's a monster amp! The clean tones are surprisingly great and the crunch and ODs channels have that classic thumping, growling, and biting rock tone. This being said, the emulated out is utter rubbish for headphones. It's supposed to emulate a 1960's 4x12 cab. Yeah right. ha They should have configured it the same way as Blackstar's superior emulated out which sounds just like the amp speaker. With the price drop they will be releasing a new and improved version soon.
Used to play through dsl 100 head. Great amp, the only thing I’d love to have was separate eq sections one for each channel. The great eq settings on one channel may not translate as good to the other.
Great amp Shane!
I have a BT50 that I got for $300 used, that basically apes this amp, with the clean/crunch channel, classic channel & an ultra channel, FX loop & a real SPRING reverb as opposed to your DSL'S digital 1!
Def based on the same or similar circuit!
Loved mine but had to sell it due to the weight. Just couldn't carry it anymore. To replace it, I bought a Line 6 Catylist 100. Great amp for pedals.
Hi ! Really great demo ! In terms of clean/edge of breakup tones, can the dsl compete with the studio jtm ? I'm really torn between this 2.
I have this amp, paired with a Gibson Les Paul it is tone heaven!
Hey Shane, so as I commented a few days ago that I decided to purchase this amp new and was happy with it for the most part BUT I finally plugged in the footswitch and noticed a latency issue when changing channels as well as a popping noise. Do you also have this issue with yours? This may be a deal breaker for me. Let me know if you see this latest comment. Thanks........P.S. I also purchased a Texas Heat speaker as well because it is a bit too sizzley on the top end for sure.
Have you looked up the Marshall JVM series? I reckon you should do a video on either the 205 or 410 combo amps!
The JVM amps are very versatile and do amazing rock, blues and metal tones!
If you had to pick for the money, would you pick this or the peavey bandit red stripe that you rave about? Entry level guitar player here.
Marshall dsl40cr for sure !!!
Hi. As always, great vid. I have a question regarding the Eminence speaker. Did you use the 8 or 16Ohm? Thanks.
Just to be clear I have the DSL 40 CR and I love it but, it has had its issues which I spoke about recently... called my amp tech and asked if I am the only one having issues to which he replied " I have 4 in my shop now". .. and I have to wait a month to get mine in !! Tube amp techs are going away in my area , he's the only Marshall Warranty guy left close by....I still love mine just wish I could play it !! Cheers Mate ! 11:44
What goes wrong with them? I've had a Fender Bassbreaker 15 Combo (LTD Yellow Tweed/Greenback) since shortly after they came out and 'knock wood', no problems at all so far... Of course I don't gig it, so it only ever gets moved between my main floor and the basement where the drum kit is setup ;)
I just bought one, What is the issue you had? I looked at your channel and didn't see anything about it.
@@johnsmith-ug5tp It was on his last video about these....first time it quit working it was because of too much glue on the cab dripping into the electronics....this time it quit working again and I suspect more glue issues both channels quit working and the input jack has become so loose it's not making contact, I'll know more when my tech gets into it on the 25th of April, have to wait a month to get it in because he's so backed up !
Thats not good.@@toddflowers8052
My DSL40cr just decided to stop working after I started using a PS1 power soak, it was connected fine but just stopped working, I hope it's just the fuses like yours! Otherwise it sounds amazing and I loved it
Sounds really good
@intheblues
I’ve seen lots (lots, not all, yet) of your videos and long story short I ended up getting a vox ac15 blue tv and the Fender Supersonic. In my case most of the times I use the vox and almost never the supersonic, I guess that is because I prefer the “natural” distortion of the amp (SuperSonic’s Vintage/burn button didn’t got me). I’m now after a Marshall valved between a SC20 or SV20.
P.S.: I’ve never thanked you for opening my ears and healthy criticism on gears, so here goes: Thank You, Shane my m8!
Great review mate! Thanks! I'm looking at one for sale now. 8:23 - How did it blow a fuse by turning on the amp without it plugged in? 🤔
I guess this amp would sound better with a creamback.Great channel by the way!
Cheers!
Mine is great!! I get that funky funky dirty dirty! 86' Charvel model 5 shreds the face!
The Achilles' heel of these amps is the sound farts out on the gain channel set above 6 causing a delay in the attack. Also, the reverb is very lacking. If they could sort out these probs, great amp..
On my DSL40CR I only use the classic gain channel in the clean mode and then use pedals for different levels of overdrive. To my ear it sounded better like this than with the built in overdrive
Great video! Those amps are like the Hot Rod Deluxe of Marshall amps--nothin fancy or special; just a great sounding workhorse of an amp.
been a big fan of ur channel for a long time and since ur the right guy to ask , do you agree that 50 watt plexis and JCMs and JMPs of the old era are quite more louder than the same 50 watt reissues today or so called 50 watt tube amps made today ? I had a friend with a JMP and a 30watt Plexi and they were SO LOUD compared to similar watt rated amps in the stage most of which were solid states .
My question is what happened to the original vid you did for that one back when. You were on fire in that vid and I can't find it anymore!
I changed the thumbnails on the old videos recently my logo is still on the thumbnail.
Hi" If you don't mind. I would like to ask you what tube amp you would recommend for blues and funk. I don't like wild loud sounds. This would be strictly for home use. Thanks for any info!
Thank you for this revision! I was just considering the DSL40CR for home and rehersal room because ironically, DSL20HR is too loud as it has no master volumes, but this one does. You mentioned that this combo would also be too loud for home use, do you need to turn the master vol up to get the sound filling out?
I find that those great, saturated overdrive tones are only any use in the bedroom. On stage, they just get swallowed up in the mix, and you end up playing with a much cleaner sound. My go-to is a Fender BDR, because there's _enough_ overdrive, and it has a real spring reverb. I've recently gigged a 1989 Peavey Bandit (real spring reverb!), which was excellent, but have not yet taken my 1999 Laney LC30 (another real spring reverb!) to a gig. I suspect that the Laney might be better than the Marshall for the kind of gigs I play.
Hi. Nice review. I have the same DSL-CR. I’d like to know if you use the ultra gain channel, and, what you do for solo boost.
Cause, I only boost the sound for solos in the clean channel. 😞
I have, TS9DX, TC Spark, Boss SD1, Boss EQ. I can’t work with any of that.
Tks bro.
Thanks for your review. Quick question. When you replaced the stock 16 ohm celestian speaker with the Texas heat speaker, did you get 16 ohm? I see Texas heat comes in 4, 8 and 16 ohm. Any advice would be very appreciated. Thank you.
Hi Shane,
I love mine, home use, but I’m interested to know the difference between the amps Emulated Out and using your TwoNotes CaptorX for recording… What’s better??